I was supposed to share a list post next since it won my Instagram story… but after today’s lunch? Yeah, no. Kokee Kitchen jumped the line because it was SO FREAKING GOOD. I’m genuinely still thinking about it.
For context: I tried Kokee Tea ages ago (Arundel Mills) and wasn’t impressed, so I avoided going back. But a bunch of you told me the food at THIS location was different and absolutely worth trying so I made the trip. And wow, am I glad I did. After ordering, I chatted briefly with the owner who explained that the tea is Kokee brand, but all the food recipes are hers.
A Little Background…
Kokee Kitchen is tucked inside Columbia’s Centre Park Drive corridor, serving a menu that’s completely unique to this specific location. The drinks follow the Kokee Tea brand, but the food is entirely chef-created in-house which explains why everyone kept telling me I had to come here. This isn’t your typical boba shop, and after trying my eats today, I totally understand the hype.
What I Ordered (…and What You Should Too)
Brown Sugar Dalgonatte ($6.46 + extra for honey boba): Made with milk and brown sugar, then topped with a fluffy dalgona coffee foam. This drink is ridiculously delicious and quite possibly my favorite boba drink EVER. I got mine at 25% sweetness (I don’t love super sweet drinks) and it was perfect. I’m honestly curious how it tastes with 0% since the honey boba adds sweetness on its own.
Yangnyeon Wings ($7.49 for 5 pcs): 10/10. Crispy, juicy, packed with flavor. The sauce had a subtle kick and the wings were incredibly well-fried. Easily top 5 wings I’ve had in Maryland. I actually regret not ordering the spicy version too.
If you’re already in Columbia chasing fried chicken, Kong Pocha is another must, a Korean pocha just a few miles away with next-level Korean fried chicken and a late-night vibe.
Chicken Butt Sandwich ($9.99): No clue why it’s called the Chicken Butt Sandwich, but it is DAMN GOOD. Easily one of the best chicken sandwiches I’ve had in a minute. The chicken was a little thin, but everything else slapped: homemade slaw, crunchy pickles, a flavorful signature sauce, and a grilled brioche bun that ties it all together. Amazing textures, great flavor balance, zero notes other than wanting a thicker piece of chicken, lol.
If you’re on a chicken sandwich tour of Maryland, Big Chicken in Gambrills just opened as Shaq’s first Maryland location, and the loaded sauced sandwiches and tenders are worth adding to your list.
Why You’ll Love Kokee Kitchen
- Exclusive menu: You can only get these dishes at the Columbia location.
- Surprising quality: The wings and sandwich could hold their own at a standalone Korean comfort food spot.
- A new go-to: Perfect for a quick lunch, a boba run, or a casual dinner.
- Great value: Portions are solid and flavor is fire.
📍 8765 Centre Park Dr #12b, Columbia, MD
⏰ Mon–Thu: 11–8:30 PM, Fri–Sat: 11–9 PM, Sun: 12–6 PM
Nomsters, this one’s an EASY yes from me. If you haven’t been to Kokee Kitchen yet, go try it. I promise it’ll be love at first bite. Browse more yummy Columbia eats by clicking here!!!